Top Chefs Reveal Their Go-To Fast Food in Thailand & Hong Kong

When you think of Chef Ian Kittichai, the celebrated culinary figure from Bangkok, or Hong Kong–born Chef Richie Lin of Plaa, “fast food” might not be the first thing that springs to mind. These are chefs committed to fresh, seasonal, sustainable ingredients, masters of intricate Thai flavors and contemporary techniques. Plaa itself is a testament to their shared vision, focusing on vibrant seafood with carefully crafted Thai herb and spice profiles.

But even culinary maestros sometimes need a quick, satisfying bite. So, if these discerning palates were to indulge in the fast-food scenes of their respective cities—which in Asia often means both incredible street eats and ubiquitous global chains—what would they choose?

Chef Ian Kittichai’s Bangkok Speed-Feasts: From Street Stalls to Surprise Chain Picks

A champion of Thai cuisine, Chef Kittichai would undoubtedly gravitate toward street-food stalls and local shophouses that deliver authentic, punchy flavors. However, living in a global city, he’s also aware of the international chains and their local adaptations.

His True Loves (Authentic Thai Fast Food)

  1. Boat Noodles (Kway Teow Reua): This iconic Thai dish, with its rich, herbaceous broth, is a quick meal packed with complex flavors—depth in a humble, rapidly served bowl.
  2. Som Tum (Papaya Salad) & Gai Yang (Grilled Chicken): The quintessential Thai street-food pairing. A master of Thai spices, he’d prize a Som Tum stall that pounds up a fresh, vibrant salad on the spot.
  3. Pad Krapow Moo (Holy Basil Stir-Fry with Pork): A ubiquitous one-plate wonder, showcasing fiery chilies and fragrant holy basil.
  4. Moo Ping (Grilled Pork Skewers) with Khao Niao (Sticky Rice): Tender, marinated pork grilled over charcoal—the ultimate Thai snack on the go.

If He Had to Pick from Chains (Acknowledging Local Twists & Guilty Pleasures)

  1. KFC Thailand for Localized Spice: “If I’m in a rush and craving something familiar yet with a Thai kick, the spicy fried-chicken options at KFC Thailand hit the spot. They really understand our palate for heat.”
  2. McDonald’s Thailand for a Quick Pork Burger: “Sometimes you just want a burger. McDonald’s Thailand often has pork options—like the Samurai Pork Burger when it’s available—which you don’t find elsewhere. It serves its purpose.”
  3. The Pizza Company Thailand for Thai-Style Pizza: “As a local chain that’s really embraced Thai tastes, The Pizza Company offers topping combinations you wouldn’t find on traditional Italian pies. It’s a unique Thai take on a global favorite.”

For more Thai chain menus, see the full list on the Thailand Foodmenu Guide.

Chef Richie Lin’s Hong Kong Hustle: Traditional Quick Bites & Unexpected Chain Choices

Hong Kong–born Chef Richie Lin, with his appreciation for fresh seafood and refined flavors at Plaa, would seek out the city’s classic, efficient, high-quality quick eats. But in a melting-pot metropolis, he’d also be familiar with the international players.

His Go-To Local Gems (Authentic Hong Kong Fast Food)

  1. Wonton Noodle Soup: A cornerstone of Cantonese cuisine—springy noodles, clear flavorful broth, and plump shrimp wontons.
  2. Siu Mei (Roast Meats): Char Siu (BBQ pork), Siu Yuk (crispy pork belly), or roast duck, served with rice. Chef Lin would seek out a shop with perfectly crispy skin and succulent meat.
  3. Congee (Jook): The ultimate comfort food. A silky congee with fresh fish slices (fitting his Plaa focus) is smooth, flavorful, and nourishing.
  4. Curry Fish Balls & Street Snacks: Iconic Hong Kong street bites offering a quick, straightforward taste of local life.

When International Chains Call (Finding the Best of the Familiar)

  1. McDonald’s Hong Kong for a Reliable Classic (with Local Flair): “For sheer speed and consistency—especially with family or when you want something everyone recognizes—McDonald’s Hong Kong is a constant. They also roll out interesting local specials from time to time.”
  2. Jollibee Hong Kong for a Taste of Joyful Chicken: “Jollibee in Hong Kong has a huge following, and their Chickenjoy is undeniably crispy and popular. It’s a different flavor profile but has made its mark.”
  3. KFC Hong Kong for a Bucket: “Sometimes you just need a bucket of fried chicken. KFC Hong Kong delivers that familiar taste—a guilty pleasure for many.”

For more Hong Kong chain menus, explore the Hong Kong Foodmenu Guide.

The Common Thread: Authenticity, Quality, and Sometimes… Convenience

While Plaa offers a refined, contemporary dining experience, the imagined fast-food choices of Chefs Kittichai and Lin reflect a deep respect for culinary traditions, fresh ingredients, and vibrant, honest flavors—primarily found in local street food. Yet in the modern culinary landscape, even top chefs recognize the role and occasional appeal of international chains, especially those offering unique local twists or simply providing a quick, familiar option. For these chefs, “fast food” is a spectrum: their hearts lean toward authenticity, but they understand the diverse cravings of a bustling city.

Next time you’re in Bangkok or Hong Kong, channel your inner fine-dining chef and seek out these local fast-food gems. And if a familiar craving strikes, you now know what even a top chef might (perhaps quietly) pick from the menu.